Manila – The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), a leading financial institution in Southeast Asia, was recently honoured with two prestigious awards at the Asian Management Excellence Awards 2025, further solidifying its position as a trailblazer in corporate innovation and workforce engagement.
The recognition—Philippines Innovator of the Year – Banking and Philippines Employee Engagement of the Year – Banking—reflects BPI’s commitment to redefining how an organisation empowers its people and reshapes customer experience through innovation-led growth.
At the forefront of this transformation is Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Vice President and Head of the Retail Lending and Bancassurance Group. Under his visionary leadership, the group experienced a remarkable 32% year-on-year growth in loan releases. His approach? A sharp focus on customer delight, digital transformation, and an unwavering belief in the power of an engaged workforce.
One of the hallmark strategies under Cuajotor’s leadership is the Lead Coordinators Network, a dynamic platform that breaks down silos and fosters cross-functional collaboration across 22 locations. This initiative has cultivated a network of local leaders who not only advance the group’s mission but also respond quickly during crises—proactively locating staff members during natural disasters, for instance.
BPI’s cultural transformation is also embodied in BPI ICare IShare, a nationwide volunteerism campaign that mobilizes staff across the Philippines in community engagement. In its latest cycle, more than 120 volunteers reached over 300 beneficiaries in simultaneous outreach events.
Furthermore, BPI has emerged as a pioneer in inclusive finance and sustainability through groundbreaking programs such as BPI MyBahay, a housing loan product tailored for low-income earners, and BPI Green Solutions, the country’s first sustainable loan suite. These offerings have supported over 6,000 families and generated PHP 6.5 billion in funding within just two years.
The bank’s Innovation Lab has become a cornerstone of its internal evolution. This initiative empowers employees to launch impactful projects in just 60 days within a structured, agile framework. With over 100 initiatives delivered in 24 months, the Lab has sparked personal growth, enhanced career clarity, and strengthened leadership pipelines within BPI.
As the business world accelerates toward digital and human-centric growth models, BPI’s latest accolades are a testament to the power of aligned leadership, bold innovation, and a culture built on empowerment.
Through its dual wins at the Asian Management Excellence Awards, BPI not only celebrates a milestone but also sets a new benchmark for excellence in Southeast Asian banking.
